"A Great Big World" is an American musical duo formed by singers and songwriters Ian Axel and Chad King. They gained widespread recognition for their hit single "Say Something," featuring Christina Aguilera, which was released in 2013. Here are some interesting facts about the duo:
Formation: Ian Axel and Chad King met while they were both attending New York University's Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music. They formed the duo in 2011 and adopted the name "A Great Big World" in reference to their big dreams and ambitions.
Early Success: Before their breakthrough, A Great Big World performed in small venues and released independent music. Their song "This Is the New Year" gained popularity after being featured on the TV show "Glee."
"Say Something": The duo's collaboration with Christina Aguilera on the song "Say Something" propelled them to international fame. The song's emotional lyrics and poignant melody struck a chord with listeners, and the collaboration added a new dimension to their music.
Grammy Award: "Say Something" received critical acclaim and won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2015. The song's success helped solidify A Great Big World's position in the music industry.
Debut Album: Their debut album, "Is There Anybody Out There?" (2014), features "Say Something" and other heartfelt and introspective tracks that showcase their unique blend of pop and indie influences.
Connection with Fans: A Great Big World is known for their genuine and heartfelt interactions with their fans. They have maintained a strong online presence and often engage with listeners through social media.
Collaborations: Apart from Christina Aguilera, A Great Big World has collaborated with other notable artists such as Darren Criss and Futuristic. Their collaborations bring different musical flavors to their sound.
Empowering Lyrics: Many of A Great Big World's songs explore themes of self-acceptance, inner struggles, and personal growth. Their music often contains empowering and relatable messages.
Live Performances: The duo's live performances are characterized by their dynamic and energetic stage presence. They are known for creating an intimate atmosphere that resonates with audiences.
Evolution of Sound: While their early music leaned toward indie and piano-driven pop, A Great Big World has continued to evolve their sound. Their subsequent albums have incorporated a broader range of influences, including electronic and folk elements.
Impact on Mental Health: Both Ian Axel and Chad King have been open about their personal struggles with anxiety and depression. They use their music to connect with fans who may be going through similar experiences and emphasize the importance of mental health awareness.
Later Albums: After their debut album, A Great Big World released albums like "When the Morning Comes" (2015) and "Part of the Sky" (2020), showcasing their growth as artists and songwriters.
A Great Big World's music is characterized by its emotional depth, introspective lyrics, and the powerful connection it creates with listeners. The duo's journey from small venues to Grammy recognition exemplifies their dedication to their craft and their ability to resonate with a diverse audience.